Overview
The University of Antwerp (UAntwerp) is inviting applications for a full-time Postdoctoral Scholarship Holder within the Department of Family Medicine and Population Health (Faculty of Medicine). This position focuses on the implementation and scientific evaluation of direct-from-sputum whole-genome sequencing (WGS) of Mycobacterium tuberculosis as part of the groundbreaking DiSrupT RR-TB trial based in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa.
Postdoctoral Scholarship in Direct-from-Sputum Whole Genome Sequencing of Mycobacterium tuberculosis – University of Antwerp
Job Details at a Glance
| Position / Designation | Postdoctoral Scholarship Holder |
| Research Area | Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Genomics, Bioinformatics, Infectious Diseases |
| Faculty / Department | Faculty of Medicine, Department of Family Medicine and Population Health |
| Host Institution | University of Antwerp, Belgium |
| Work Location | Drie Eiken Campus (Antwerp, Belgium) with project collaborations in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa |
| Contract Duration | Full-time (100%) for 24 months |
| Planned Start Date | January 4, 2027 |
| Application Deadline | October 1, 2026 (Midnight, Brussels Time) |
Job Description
As a postdoctoral researcher, you will play a crucial role in advancing tuberculosis genomic epidemiology and diagnostic workflows. You will contribute directly to the DiSrupT RR-TB trial, which evaluates multi-component interventions using hybrid sequencing approaches (combining direct-from-sputum QIAseq xHYB assays with culture-based whole-genome sequencing) to reduce rifampicin-resistant TB transmission.
Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting the development and implementation of the sequencing hybrid workflow at the clinical sequencing facility in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), South Africa.
- Developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and training local laboratory staff to build diagnostic and research capacity.
- Monitoring quality assurance, troubleshooting technical issues, and refining experimental protocols.
- Performing bioinformatic analysis of generated WGS data for drug-resistance inference and transmission dynamics.
- Collaborating across multidisciplinary teams spanning laboratory science, genomics, epidemiology, and public health.
- Disseminating research findings through high-impact scientific publications and conference presentations.
- Assisting with research management tasks within the TORCH Consortium and co-supervising PhD candidates.
- Applying for competitive internal and external postdoctoral funding to expand the study’s scope.
Eligibility & Qualification Criteria
Mandatory Requirements
- Education: Must hold a PhD in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Genomics, Bioinformatics, or a closely related field.
- Mobility Rule: You must not have resided or carried out your main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Belgium for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to the start date.
- Wet-Lab Experience: Proven hands-on experience performing wet-lab whole-genome sequencing workflows related to Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
- Bioinformatics Skills: Practical experience analyzing and interpreting microbial NGS data, including identifying genetic variants associated with TB drug resistance.
- Direct Sequencing: Experience working with NGS workflows performed directly on clinical specimens (e.g., sputum).
- Capacity Building: Demonstrated experience with skills transfer, training, and capacity development in low- and middle-income country (LMIC) settings.
- Communication: Excellent oral and written English language proficiency.
Desirable Assets (Nice-to-Have)
- Experience in phylogenetic analysis to assess transmission dynamics of M. tuberculosis.
- Prior experience with capacity-building projects in African research institutions.
What the University Offers
- A 24-month full-time postdoctoral scholarship with a competitive monthly stipend calculated according to the BAP (Bijzonder Academisch Personeel) pay scales.
- Comprehensive fringe benefits including ecocheques, an internet-connectivity allowance, and a bicycle allowance or full public transport commuting reimbursement.
- Opportunities for professional development, research leadership, and specialized training.
- A dynamic, international work environment at Campus Drie Eiken.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must apply through the University of Antwerp’s online recruitment platform. Ensure you submit the following documents before the deadline:
- A detailed Motivation Letter
- An up-to-date Academic Curriculum Vitae (CV)
For questions regarding the scientific scope of the role, please contact Vincent Rennie at vincent.rennie@uantwerpen.be. For procedural or technical application queries, contact jobs@uantwerpen.be.
Last Date for Application: October 1, 2026
